Jet2 will begin flights and package holidays from London Gatwick Airport on March 26, 2026, deploying a fleet of six aircraft and initially offering 29 sun destinations.

This start represents the first significant entry of a leisure airline at Gatwick since 2020, responding to increasing demand for travel services in the region.

The carrier plans to base five new Airbus A321neo aircraft at Gatwick, along with one additional aircraft, as part of its broader expansion strategy.

Jet2’s network at Gatwick will include destinations in Spain, the Canary Islands, Greece, Turkey, and other markets frequently targeted by UK leisure travelers.

Jet2 Boeing 737-800 (Steve Knight)
Jet2 Boeing 737-800 (Steve Knight)

The operation is expected to generate over 300 direct jobs, covering roles in flight operations, ground handling, and customer service.

Jet2 has grown to 14 UK airport bases since its inception in 2003, becoming the country’s third largest airline by passenger numbers.

This development underscores ongoing competition in the UK leisure travel sector, as carriers position themselves to capture post-pandemic recovery and shifting passenger trends.